Tight security will be in place as Gov. Zapata delivers third annual report Sunday

As tight security measures were being put in place in and around Merida’s Siglo XXI Convention Center on Friday Jan. 15, Yucatan Gov. Rolando Zapata Bello was preparing to tell citizens about his administation’s accomplishments in his Third Annual Report on Sunday.

Although Zapata’s much-anticipated speech will not be delivered until 11 a.m. Sunday Jan. 17, the governor has already laid out details of what he’s accomplished on the official Yucatan state government website.

Under the title “I continue to deliver on my promises for Yucatan,” Zapata lists some of the most important projects and programs that he vowed to implement as a candidate and newly elected governor three years ago.

Governor Rolando Zapata Bello (Photo: SIPSE)

Among the achievements the governor touts are attracting 17 percent more tourists to Yucatan, launching construction of a new international convention center in Merida’s northern hotel zone and developing the National Palace of Music on the old state legislature site in downtown Merida.

Zapata also takes credit for increasing enrollment 14 percent in higher education, and adding 822 new public security vehicles to law enforcement fleets. The governor also states that 4,800 new businesses have been created in Yucatan during his first three years as the state’s chief executive.

Meanwhile, tight security measures were being put in place as the Ministry of Public Security (SSP), the Army, the Federal Police and the State Attorney will shield the Siglo XXI Convention Center for Zapata’s speech Sunday.

All attendees will have to pass through metal detectors. Snipers will be stationed on rooftops, and officers will conduct surveillance and patrols. So far no road closures are expected around the convention center on Calle 60 Norte, in Merida’s northern suburbs.

Tight security is also due to the expected presence of many dignataries including 12 invited governors, among which are Rafael Moreno Valle Rosas from Puebla, Roberto Borge Angulo from Quintana Roo and Alejandro Moreno Cárdenas from Campeche; along with Miguel Ángel Mancera Espinosa Mexico City Mayor.

The SSP will have about 300 agents who in coordination with the Army and other authorities will have the task of ensuring the safety of those present. The amount of security agents will increase even more Sunday when the governor, senior officials and commanders of the Armed Forces arrive with their own personal security.

Also present will be plainclothes officers to dispel possible protests. Armored vehicles and helicopter overflights will provide backup measures. No access will be provided to any person who does not have an invitation or is carrying any dangerous object.